DANIEL COMBES GARDEN DESIGN
berkshire Garden Design
Our Berkshire garden design projects regularly take us in to this Royal county bordered by Oxfordshire to the north, London to the east, Hampshire to the south, and Wiltshire to the west.
Berkshire, with its rolling countryside, historic estates, and charming villages, provides the perfect setting for creating stunning gardens. Whether we are working with a small town courtyard, a riverside retreat or a grand country estate, designing a garden in Berkshire requires careful planning, creativity, and an understanding of the local climate and landscape.
Berkshire has a rich horticultural heritage, from formal gardens in stately homes to naturalistic landscapes.
The county enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. This means a wide range of plants can thrive, but we are mindful to consider soil as it can vary from clay, chalk, and loamy types across the county, and microclimates feature in each specific area.
Some areas, such as the Thames Valley, can be prone to flooding. South-facing gardens get more sunlight and can support Mediterranean-style plants, while shady north-facing gardens require more woodland-friendly species.
Designing a garden in Berkshire is an exciting opportunity to create a personal oasis that reflects our client’s style and the natural beauty of the region. Whether it is a romantic cottage garden, a structured formal design, or a modern outdoor retreat, careful planning and plant selection ensure each garden thrives for years to come.
Traditional English Cottage gardens allow for a mix of perennials, such as lavender, foxgloves, and roses. Winding pathways made from gravel or brick and rustic wooden structures such as arbours.
Formal Country Estate gardens inspired by places like Cliveden or Basildon Park include characteristic neatly clipped hedges, symmetrical layouts with structured flower beds and grand lawns and sculptural topiary.
In wildlife-friendly gardens we encourage the use of native plants like hawthorn, elderflower, and wildflowers; a pond or water feature for birds and insects as well as a wildflower meadow for pollinators.
In more modern minimalist Berkshire garden designs we use simple geometric layouts opting for evergreen planting with grasses and architectural plants; incorporating reclaimed natural stone and timber where possible.
The County of berkshire
Berkshire, nestled in the heart of southern England, boasts a rich tapestry of gardens that captivate visitors with their beauty and historical significance.
Englefield Estate’s expansive gardens are a testament to centuries of meticulous cultivation. Visitors can meander through terraced lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a serene woodland area.
Located within Windsor Great Park, The Savill Garden is a 35-acre haven of interconnected gardens, each with its own distinct theme and seasonal highlights. From the vibrant hues of the Spring Wood to the architectural elegance of the New Zealand Garden, there’s always something in bloom to admire.
For those interested in organic gardening, Waltham Place offers a unique experience. This estate combines ornamental gardens with a working farm, all managed under biodynamic principles.
Managed by the National Trust, Cliveden’s gardens are renowned for their formal parterres, intricate topiary, and breathtaking views over the River Thames. The estate also features a celebrated maze and a series of woodland trails, making it a delightful destination for all ages.
Situated within the University of Reading’s Whiteknights Campus, the Harris Garden is a hidden gem. This botanical garden showcases a diverse collection of plants, including a walled garden, wildflower meadows, and seasonal displays that ensure year-round interest.
Famous for its stunning displays of snowdrops in late winter, Welford Park’s gardens are a seasonal delight. Beyond the snowdrop season, the estate offers charming walks along the River Lambourn and through ancient woodlands.
Exploring these Berkshire gardens not only offers a feast for the senses but also supports the preservation of these cherished landscapes.
If you have a Berkshire garden design project that you wish to discuss, please contact us